Greece FAQ

Basics

How do I get to Greece?

The easiest way to get to Greece is by air, with Athens International Airport (ATH) serving as the country's main gateway. Many international airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates, offer direct flights to Athens from major cities in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Seasonal flights also operate to popular island destinations like Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK), and Crete (HER), especially during the peak summer months.

Budget airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Aegean Airlines provide affordable options for travelers coming from within Europe. Greece is also accessible by ferry from Italy and neighboring countries, with routes connecting ports like Patras, Igoumenitsa, and Corfu. While there are no direct trains into Greece from other European countries, international bus services link Greece to destinations such as Albania, Bulgaria, and Turkey.

How do I get around Greece?

While getting around Greece may require some logistics—coordinating your trip with ferry schedules, for example—there are plenty of ways to get around on the mainland, Peloponnese, and the islands, thanks to a mix of regional airports, ferries, and buses.

By plane

Flying is the fastest way to travel long distances in Greece, especially between Athens, Thessaloniki, and the islands (many island routes take less than an hour). Domestic airlines like Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Olympic Air operate frequent routes to popular destinations like Crete, Santorini, and Rhodes. The number of flights increases during the summer, and while you may not find something direct in the winter or off-season, you can always reach islands with airports via the Athens International Airport.

By ferry

Ferries are a quintessential way to explore Greece. There are three main types: large car/passenger ferries (Blue Star Ferries), which are less costly, slower but stable and ideal for those prone to seasickness; high-speed catamarans, which cut travel time in half but can be rougher; and small catamarans (Seajets), the fastest, roughest, most expensive and weather-dependent option. 

Piraeus, Athens' main port, connects to Crete and Aegean island chains, while Rafina serves islands like Andros and Tinos. To reach Ionian islands like Corfu or Zakynthos, ferries depart from Patras or Igoumenitsa on the mainland. Since ferries follow set routes, check connections before planning an itinerary across distant islands. For more privacy and flexibility, consider chartering a sailboat or yacht for island-hopping.

By car, scooter, or quad

Renting a car is the best option for exploring mainland Greece, including the Peloponnese, Meteora, and Delphi. Primary road networks are modern and well-maintained, but it's important to be careful when driving on regional roads, as they are often narrow and winding. Also, note that driving in cities like Athens can be chaotic—locals often tailgate, honk frequently, and double park, so stay alert.

If you're not planning on bringing your rental to the islands, you can always rent a scooter or quad, which is a cheaper and more classic way of getting around, with rental requirements varying by engine size and nationality—some may require a motorcycle license. Since island roads can be steep, narrow, and curvy, only rent a vehicle you feel confident handling.

By Train

Greece's domestic train network serviced by OSE, the national railway company, though limited and often unreliable, offers scenic routes covering the greater part of the mainland. There are a handful of routes, with the Athens-Thessaloniki route being the most popular, though the Hellenic Train Intercity option shaves a couple of hours off the normal train. For fun, a few themed rail lines have been preserved, mostly frequented by foreign visitors, like the year-round cog train of the Peloponnese that runs from Diakofto to Kalavryta or the steam train of Pelion in Thessaly.

By Bus

Intercity buses (KTEL) are the most affordable way to travel between cities and regions on the mainland. They connect Athens to destinations like Nafplio, Delphi, and Meteora, with frequent departures. Buses are modern and comfortable, but travel times can be long due to Greece's mountainous terrain.

By public transportation

Thanks to urban refurbishment after the 2004 Summer Olympics, Athens has an accessible, affordable, and modern metro that will take you to key points of interest, like the Acropolis and the port of Piraeus. Don't miss the outstanding archaeological exhibits at stops like Monastiraki and Syntagma, featuring pieces unearthed during the subway's excavation and building process. It also conveniently connects the airport to the city center. Thessaloniki, too, has a new metro (opened in 2024) that similarly acts as an open museum at its stops. 

Ride-hailing apps like Uber and FreeNow are widely available, though it's often easier to flag down a taxi. Just be sure they turn on the meter, and it's good to have smaller bills on you if paying in cash.

I don't speak Greek. Can I get around on my own?

English is widely spoken by those in the hospitality industry and heavily visited areas. Since it's part of the standard school curriculum, you'll find that a majority of people under 40 speak it with varying proficiency. Road signs in big cities are typically bilingual, but if you're heading farther afield, it's worth learning the Greek alphabet to help you navigate.

As with traveling anywhere abroad, it's respectful to learn a few key Greek phrases to connect with locals politely. Parakalo (please) and efharisto (thank you) are always great to start with, and you'll find that Greeks are very enthusiastic when anyone tries to speak the language. A few words can go a long way.

What's the currency in Greece?

The currency in Greece is the euro (EUR).

Is Greece expensive?

Greece is generally more affordable than many Western European countries, but prices will be higher during peak summer months (sometimes double!), particularly in July and August and in hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos. For example, you can expect to pay EUR 15-40 for a meal and EUR 10 for a beer on Mykonos, whereas on other islands and even cities like Athens (excluding restaurants close to the Acropolis), it's much more affordable at about EUR 10-15 for a meal at a casual taverna.

A pint of draft beer or a soft drink can go as little as EUR 2-3, a bottle of house wine in a restaurant is about EUR 10, and a coffee (cappuccino, Greek coffee, etc.) in popular areas is around EUR 3-5. Car rentals generally start at about EUR 25 per day, though rates can vary depending on the vehicle and time of year, while standard hotels typically range from EUR 70-150 per night.

What time zone is Greece in?

Greece's time zone is Eastern European Standard Time (EST), which is UTC+2. The country observes daylight savings, at which point it's UTC+3, observed from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

How big is Greece?

Greece is around 51,000 square miles (132,089 sq km), making it slightly smaller than the state of Alabama. The geography is split between the mainland and somewhere between 1,200 and 6,000 islands (depending on how you define an island) in the Ionian and Aegean seas.

Athens is about 300 miles (483 km) from Thessaloniki, in the north (about an hour's flight or roughly five-hour road trip). If you're heading south to Crete, about 250 miles (402 km) from Athens, you can also expect an hour plane ride or a 5-8 hour ferry. Traveling within island chains is easy thanks to ferries, hydrofoils, catamarans, and a plethora of regional airports.

How many days should I spend in Greece?

If you're trying to decide how long of an itinerary to plan, take a look at this article on how many days to spend in Greece. Ideally, you want to plan at least a week to take in the major ancient sites of the mainland or of just Athens in addition to spending some time island hopping and soaking up the sun (see this classic Athens and the Cyclades trip). With so much to do, though, it's easy to add on another week or two to take in lesser-visited islands, northern mainland cities, and treasures of antiquity.

What's the weather like in Greece year-round?

Depending on the time of year and where you plan to visit, Greece can swing from chilly winters to scorching hot summers that top 100°F (43°C). When planning your itinerary, plan to avoid stifling August heat waves and look instead at scheduling your vacation in late spring/early summer (mid-April through mid-June) and fall (September through November) to beat summer's heat and tourist-packed high season. 

Spring (March to May)

Many find spring to be the most beautiful time in Greece, and for good reason. The weather is ideal, with temperatures ranging from 55°F-77°F (13°C-25°C). It's prime season for outdoor activities as it's warm enough to enjoy a swim (although the water is a little colder than in the summer) but not too hot to interfere with a hike.

Summer (June to August) and fall (September to November)

Greek summer (and fall) seems to be getting hotter every year, with average temperatures in July and August hitting 96°F (36°C). Days rarely drop below 82°F (27°C), and as the likelihood of heatwaves continues increasing, you'll often find temperatures exceeding 100°F (43°C). The heat gets especially high in cities like Athens, so be prepared to tackle the Acropolis with a lot of sunscreen and water, and make sure that your activities are set for the morning or evening. June and October are milder, as temperatures in June range from around 22°C (72°F) to 28°C (82°F) and reach 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) in October.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Greece can be chilly and rainy, but it's relatively mild. You can expect sunny days, and while the water will be chilly, you can enjoy a refreshing winter swim. The average temperature on the mainland is 55°F (13°C), but the temperatures drop farther north, like in Thessaloniki and on the islands. Gorges like Samaria are closed at this time due to rainfall, but you can still hike elsewhere and for longer than you would in the extreme summer heat. 

Before traveling, check the forecast for specific destinations and pack accordingly for each region's unique climate. For more information, see Best Time of Year to Visit Greece.

Is Greece a family-friendly destination?

Break out the beach toys and mythology books—Greece is a fantastic destination if you're traveling with little ones. The culture is warm and welcoming, and museums and historic sites offer ample kid-friendly programming. In fact, Greeks are so inclusive of youngsters that it's not uncommon to see tykes in tavernas at 11 pm.

In addition to a number of aquatic activities and beach fun, there are medieval forts to explore in Corfu and Rhodes, a wonderful Natural History Museum on Crete, and hours of curated exhibits and play in Athens's many museums and ruins. For some inspiration on the country's must-see spots, take a look at this family-forward article, which includes kid-friendly ideas like snorkeling, sailing, and learning about the ancient world.

What's the deal with Greek plumbing?

Because Greek sewage pipes are small—generally two inches (50 mm) in diameter—they clog easily with toilet paper. That's why you'll see signs all over Greece requesting that you throw away (rather than flush) your toilet paper. You'll find handy bins to dispose of your paper next to toilets, which are emptied daily.

Cash & Credit Cards

Should I have cash on me when traveling around in Greece?

There are some instances where you'll need cash in Greece, for example, when paying for cabs, tipping, and shopping at local markets. ATMs are widely available in airports and bigger cities, but small towns and villages may only have one machine, which may or may not accept your debit card. To avoid problems, travel with enough cash to get you through 24 hours and carry a mixture of denominations in case you can't change large bills.

Can I use my credit cards in Greece?

Many Greek businesses accept payment by credit card and Apple Pay. Note that as Greece has phased out magnetic-stripe credit cards in favor of chip-and-PIN cards, if your magnetic-stripe card is rejected, the cashier will manually enter your card number and will need the card's PIN. Greek ATMs and card readers only accept four-digit PINs; if yours is different, check with your bank to change your number before you depart.

Tipping

Is there a tipping culture in Greece? How much should I tip in Greece?

Unlike some countries with standard tipping practices and rates, Greece has a variety of customs around gratuity. In restaurants, tipping is expected (particularly from foreign visitors); expect to leave at least 5% and as much as 10% if you received great service. Make sure to check the bill, though: some restaurants round up, adding on a service charge, while others may tack on a small "cover charge" for bread and water.

Aim to leave tips for wait staff in cash, as it's common for servers not to receive gratuities left on credit card transactions. Tips are also generally expected by taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff: think EUR one per bag for porters, EUR one per day for housekeepers, and a few euros for the concierge if you get excellent service.

Food & Drink

What's the food like in Greece?

If you love fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a varied cuisine, Greek food will not disappoint. Expect briny olives from Kalamata, salty cheeses, fresh seafood, buttery lamb, peppery olive oils, and flaky treats wrapped in impossibly light phyllo dough. Greek cuisine epitomizes the bounty that the Mediterranean has to offer.

Greek breakfast always involves rich coffee and something simple like tiropita (a cheese-filled pastry), yogurt and honey, or fresh bread. Lunch and dinner can be as easy as a pita filled with lamb gyro or souvlaki or can be a drawn-out affair: think an elaborate spread of mezze (hot and cold appetizers, bites and dips), followed by salad, roasted meats or casseroles, and fresh bread. Linger over your meal while you sip anise-flavored ouzo or rakı, a glass of bold local wine, or a regional beer from the blossoming microbrew scene.

In fact, grabbing a bite at a Greek bakery is one of our favorite ways to mingle with locals—read more about Greece's best cultural experiences here. 

What can I expect to pay for a meal or drink?

Prices can fluctuate based on where you are in Greece and the type of restaurant, with popular areas and upscale venues generally commanding higher prices. A meal at a taverna or casual eatery typically costs around EUR 8-15, while a three-course meal at a midrange restaurant averages EUR 18-25. A pint of draft beer or a soft drink can go as little as EUR 2, a bottle of house wine in a restaurant is about EUR 10, and a coffee (cappuccino, Greek coffee, etc.) in popular areas is around EUR 3-5.

Always expect to pay more for food and drink during peak season on popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini and around major attractions like the Acropolis. 

How easy is it to travel in Greece with dietary restrictions?

The long-lasting image of Greek food may be a juicy gyro or souvlaki, but the cuisine is actually very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Many meals are made only from vegetables, legumes, and olive oil. In fact, there's a name for these dishes: ladera, which means "in oil." In cities and towns, you'll often find restaurants that cater to various dietary needs. 

As the awareness of veganism has grown, so have the options for dairy-free choices. Many cafés in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki or popular spots like Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini now offer nondairy milk like almond, soy, or oat. However, it's more difficult to find it at cafés or restaurants in smaller villages or remote places. You can usually find nondairy drinks in the local supermarket or minimarket. The big Greek supermarkets AB Vassilopolous, Kritikos, Galaxias, Sklavenitis, and Lidl all carry a range of vegan products, including cheese and plant-based meats.  

Is the water safe to drink in Greece?

Tap water is safe to drink on the mainland in larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, but stick to bottled water if you're in a smaller town off the beaten track or if you're exploring the islands. Luckily, bottled water is extremely affordable in Greece, with small bottles typically 50 cents and bigger ones a euro.

What kind of hours are restaurants open?

When planning meal times and restaurant reservations, keep in mind that Greeks eat late. For lunch, this means 2 pm at the earliest, and for dinner, crowds start trickling in after 9 pm (and even later once the heat dies down in summer months). Also note that meals, particularly lunch, are a sacred time to connect with friends and family and can last hours.

Packing

What essential items should I pack for a trip to Greece?

Whether you're planning to explore ancient sites or relax on the beach, come to Greece prepared with some key items in your luggage. If your itinerary is heavy on cobblestone-lined cities and rocky ruins, pack good shoes and breathable clothing. Traveling in winter? Make sure to throw in an umbrella and lightweight raincoat. In warmer months, be sure to include warm-weather essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, as many islands and archaeological sites lack shade.

If you're venturing to the islands, pack some sturdy sandals for strolling around and perhaps some water shoes, particularly if you're heading to the black, volcanic beaches of Santorini.

Do I need an electrical adapter/converter?

As you would for other European destinations, come prepared with a travel adapter and, depending on your appliance, a voltage converter. France uses Europlug sockets, types "C" and "F," which have two round prongs and supply a different voltage (230 V/50 Hz) than North America (110 V/60 Hz).

I'm traveling with kids. Do I need to pack a child seat?

If you're traveling with children less than 12 and under 4'5" (135 cm) to Greece, consider bringing your own child seat if it meets Greek Traffic Code (KOK) and European  Regulation standards (which differ from US standards). Alternatively, child seats are available for rent through car rental agencies, though availability and quality can vary, especially in smaller rental agencies or on the islands. It's advisable to confirm with your rental company in advance to ensure availability and speak to your specialist, who can try to secure child seats for transfers.

Safety

Is Greece a safe place to travel?

Greece is a relatively safe place to travel; exercise the same level of awareness and savviness you would in any other European nation. Safeguard yourself from pickpockets: don't keep valuables in your back pocket, don't let anyone "help" you at an ATM, and keep your wits about you in busy areas or scooter-heavy thoroughfares.

Do be aware of taxi scams, though. For some trips, particularly from the airport or the port of Piraeus, there are government-mandated fixed prices; however, sneaky drivers might quote you a different rate altogether. If traveling by cab, be sure to use legal yellow taxis, which have functioning meters and lights on their roofs. Beware drivers who say their meters are down, lest you have to shell out an exorbitant fee once you arrive at your destination.

Play it safe by using official taxi queues at the airport or you can use apps like Uber or FreeNow, both of which will call a vetted cab for you. Note that while these apps are available in Athens, they may not be on the islands or in other locations.

What are the natural risks I need to be aware of?

During the hot summer months, extreme temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, and prolonged dry spells may spark wildfires, particularly in rural and island areas. In autumn and winter, heavy rainfall can trigger flash floods and landslides in mountainous regions, so it's wise to keep an eye on local weather forecasts. Additionally, Greece is in a seismically active zone, meaning minor earthquakes are a possibility, and coastal areas may present strong currents and rough seas for swimmers.

Are solo female travelers safe in Greece?

Solo female travelers will find Greece to be a generally safe and welcoming space, although perhaps you'll get a question or three or a strange look for being on your own. That has more to do with the fact that many Greeks don't travel alone, so it can be seen as odd to do so in a country that's so devoted to family and community.

Greece has been ranked as one of the best places in the world for solo females to travel. As with most foreigners and visitors, you'll find that Greek hospitality reigns supreme, and as a solo woman, you'll likely find many people willing to help or go out of their way to take care of you and welcome you in.

Is Greece an inclusive destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

In 2024, same-sex marriage was legalized in Greece, making it the first Orthodox country to do so. Although this historic milestone marks a huge step for the country, the Orthodox Church's influence continues to be very strong politically, culturally, and socially. There are safe havens like Mykonos, Crete, and Lesbos, which have attracted queer visitors for years. However, outside of these spaces, you'll find that acceptance can vary, particularly between generations. Many older Greeks may adhere to more conservative values, while younger Greeks may operate with more openness and identify as LGBTQIA+ themselves. 

You may encounter some issues if you show affection in public, so just be aware of the environment, particularly in smaller or more traditional places like villages. If you're in Athens or one of the popular, tourist-filled islands, people won't really care what you do, so long as you're respectful of the space and don't trash it or act obnoxiously. Marriage is a focus in Greece, so don't be surprised if a stranger presumes your heterosexuality and asks if you have a husband or wife. But for many, the ingrained value of hospitality may override their feelings, so you'll find it's mostly safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in cities or bigger towns.

Staying in Touch

How can I use my phone in Greece?

If you haven't already bought an international roaming package, the next easiest, and likely cheapest, way to use your phone in Greece is to buy an eSIM before you arrive. First, check whether your phone is eSIM compatible or call your provider. Alternatively, purchasing a SIM card upon arrival is another popular option.

Can I buy a local SIM card in Greece?

If you don't already have an eSIM or an EU SIM before you arrive in Greece, local prepaid SIM cards are available for international travelers at major airports (though generally more costly if you purchase one here), mobile carrier stores, and local vendors typically found near metro stations. These vendors are affiliated with one of the big three providers, Cosmote (having the widest coverage), Vodafone, and Nova, offering better deals than you'd get in a store. 

Ensure your phone is unlocked ahead of your travels and have your passport on you when you go to purchase and register a local SIM card.

Is the WiFi reliable in Greece?

The quality of WiFi in Greece depends on your location, as it can be spotty on some islands and in mountainous regions. You'll find free WiFi throughout the country in public spaces and at cafés and restaurants, but you may struggle to find WiFi in remote places, so we recommend buying a SIM card with data to maintain a reliable connection.

Etiquette

Are there any etiquette rules for Greece?

Greeks can be very curious and friendly. They often ask personal questions about your life and extend invitations to a meal or their home, where you'll meet their entire extended family. It's all part of Greek hospitality, and it's genuine, too; people really will open up their homes and welcome you in. It's best to bring a gift, like a bottle of wine or a dessert from a bakery. You don't need to arrive right on time and be prepared for a long meal.

This is part of a bigger theme in Greece: time, which is relative, particularly when it comes to transportation departure times. Trains, boats, buses, and ferries may have a printed schedule but can leave sporadically, which often means an early or delayed departure. Plan on arriving at your port or station early (but not too early!) and maintain a sense of laid-back flexibility in the event your trip is pushed back by an hour or more. (The exception to this rule is in planning air travel within Greece, particularly during the busy summer season.)

The loose sense of time applies to personal engagements as well. Don't be surprised if people show up late to a dinner or event; in Greece, 20-30 minutes late is still on time, and rescheduling last minute is acceptable. Be prepared for things to take longer than anticipated, like when you sit down to a meal, it may take 30 minutes to get a glass of water and order. Efficiency doesn't reign supreme in Greece; it's not about getting things done immediately, but rather, taking your time and slowing down.

What's Greek hospitality all about?

Greek hospitality has remained an integral part of the culture and identity. Many restaurants will offer you complimentary dessert along with an aperitif like rakı or ouzo. It's expected that you consume it all, and it can be seen as rude if you don't. If you don't drink or don't want to, it's often easier to say you're on antibiotics, as sobriety isn't yet really recognized in Greece.

New (and old) Greek friends will often insist on paying for your drinks or meal, and if you protest, they'll say that you can treat them whenever they visit your home country. The likelihood of that happening isn't relevant, and while you may insist a bit on paying for or splitting the cost, too much resistance can be seen as rude. You can always offer to treat them next time, but know that they probably won't let you.

What's the proper etiquette when visiting religious sites in Greece?

When visiting a monastery or church, note that there's often a dress code, especially for monasteries. Shoulders must be covered, shorts aren't allowed, and women are often expected to wear skirts or dresses that fall below the knee (as even pants may not be OK). In many cases, the monastery provides a wrap skirt or shawl at the entrance if needed. 

Remove hats and sunglasses before entering. Inside, speak quietly and avoid disruptive behavior, check for signs or ask for permission to take pictures, and if a service is taking place, avoid walking in front of worshippers or entering restricted areas. A simple greeting like kalimera (good morning) when speaking to clergy or locals is appreciated.

Entry Requirements

Do I need a visa to visit Greece?

For travelers from the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most EU countries, a visa isn't required for stays under 90 days (and within a 180-day period of visiting any Schengen country). That said, starting mid-2025, non-EU, visa-exempt travelers need to apply for an ETIAS before traveling, which isn't a visa but an electronic travel authorization.

If you're from a country that requires a Schengen entry visa, check with your local embassy or consulate or contact your specialist for assistance with specific entry requirements.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Greece?

No specific vaccinations are required for travelers from the US to enter Greece, but it's wise to stay current with routine vaccinations. You can always ask your doctor and/or check your government's recommendation for vaccination requirements in Greece.

Travelers with Disabilities

I have a disability. Is Greece accessibility friendly?

While some laws for accessibility exist in Greece, the country isn't well-equipped for those with limited mobility overall. Some modern buildings and hotels may have ramps or elevators, but many historic buildings throughout Greece are protected landmarks and can't be updated to include elevators or other accessible features.

You'll often find extremely narrow sidewalks in the cities with uneven surfaces and an array of obstacles blocking the way, such as scooters, bins, poles, and even cars, which makes walking in Greece a full-time sport. Historic centers such as those in Chania, Mykonos, or Heraklion are usually made of narrow alleyways and winding cobblestoned streets, while many archaeological sites like the Acropolis or Delphi are built on hills.

The Acropolis does have elevator access for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, and the ancient marble was recently covered with smooth cement to prevent falls and allow more access around the site. If you have mobility needs and are planning to visit particular sites, it's best to research or call the place directly to see what features they have in place.